Title of the Position: Postgraduate Research Associate Position in the Meyer lab, molecular logic of gene regulation/chromatin biophysics.

Department and School: Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, Systems Biology Institute, School of Arts and Sciences at Yale University

Anticipated Appointment Dates: 01/08/26 – 30/07/27, start date is flexible and an earlier or later date is possible. The position is a one-year appointment with the possibility of a one-year extension.

Email/Website: email: kirstin.meyer@yale.edu, website: meyerlab.yale.edu

Introduction of School/Department:

Research in the Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology share a common interest in exploring the mechanisms underlying the coordinated behaviors of molecules, cells and tissues to form living organisms.

Overview of the Position:

We are seeking a full-time post-graduate researcher to join us to investigate the principles of gene regulation and embryonic development. Our goal is to understand the molecular logic of cellular decision-making during embryonic development — how cells sense, process, and remember information to make the right decisions at the right time. To do this, we synthetically control signaling nodes and pair this with imaging-based readouts to trace the flow of information through a cell. Our toolkit includes CRISPR gene editing of mouse embryonic stem cells, optogenetic control of signaling in space and time, and advanced imaging such as single-molecule microscopy. Once we understand the underlying logic, we aim to engineer the components to rationally control cell behavior, for example cell proliferation and differentiation.

The position is a one-year appointment at $44,400 salary with the possibility of a one-year renewal. The position is available from August 1, 2026, but available for later start dates.

Training

The post-graduate researcher will work on the Yale West Campus in the System Biology Institute. The position provides a chance to learn a variety of experimental techniques such as CRISPR-based cell line engineering, optogenetics, and advanced microscopy techniques. Direct mentorship from the PI and opportunities to pursue independent research will be provided.

Mentoring
The post-graduate researcher will work closely with the PI Kirstin Meyer (weekly meetings) and other members of the lab to gain experience in the design, execution, and analysis of experiments. Mentorship in written and oral communication and opportunities for career development will be provided. This is an ideal position for recent graduates interested in strengthening their research experience prior to medical or graduate school.

Education: The postgraduate will work in a highly stimulating scientific environment, learn about embryonic development, stem cell model systems, and develop scientific presentation and manuscript writing skills. The postgraduate will learn about experimental design, data analysis and interpretation, and get a chance to develop their own scientific questions. They will actively participate in lab meetings and journal clubs and have the opportunity to present their results and ideas.

Process to Apply: Please send a cover letter briefly summarizing your research experience, motivation, CV, and contact information for at least two references to kirstin.meyer@yale.edu.

 Qualifications: The minimum requirement is an undergraduate degree in a biology-related field. Prior research experience in cell culture, molecular biology, microscopy, or biochemistry, is highly desirable. Applicants should be highly motivated, well-organized, team-players, and have strong communication skills.